Mental Health Challenges among Medical Students: A Study on Depression, Anxiety and Stress

Introduction: Medical education is a demanding journey, involving academic, emotional, and social challenges exacerbated by long hours, extensive coursework, exams, peer competition, and personal expectations. These factors contribute to significant psychological morbidity, including stress, anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation among medical students. Globally, studies report that 25%-90% of medical students experience stress, a key determinant of mental health issues. In India, addressing the mental health of medical students has gained significant attention. This study aims to assess the prevalence of depression, anxiety, and stress among medical students at a college in Gujarat, India. Materials & Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among 400 medical students across all MBBS phases. Data was collected through a structured self-administered questionnaire, consisting of three sections: demographic information, mental health assessment using the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale-21 (DASS-21), and factors associated with mental health. Results: The study found the prevalence of depression (22.2%), anxiety (37.5%), and stress (45.5%). Factors like age, gender, MBBS phase, religion, family type, residence, and reason for joining MBBS were not significantly linked to mental status of students. However, key contributors included family and personal mental health history, academic dissatisfaction, poor coping skills, family expectations, fear of the future, and life dissatisfaction. Conclusion: There is a critical need for mental health support systems within medical education to alleviate academic pressures, manage family expectations, and address social isolation. By creating an environment that prioritizes psychological well-being and reduces the stigma surrounding mental health, institutions can enhance student resilience, improve academic performance, and ultimately ensure better patient care.